CHANUTE — Southeast Kansas Mental Health Center (SEKMHC) and Neosho Memorial Regional Medical Center (NMRMC) announced Wednesday they are working together to explore options to preserve access to local healthcare services for communities across southeast Kansas.
With last week’s announcement to employees that SEKMHC will transition away from primary care and dental services offered through Ashley Clinic, the mental health center has entered collaborative discussions with Neosho Memorial Regional Medical Center in Chanute.
Healthcare leaders from both organizations emphasized these discussions reflect a shared commitment to thoughtful planning, collaboration, and community stability as the healthcare landscape continues to evolve.
“The strength of healthcare in southeast Kansas comes from commitment,” Dr. Doug Wright, interim CEO of Southeast Kansas Mental Health Center said in a press release.
“Even as healthcare — particularly rural healthcare — faces ongoing challenges, we continue to adapt. These discussions reflect our continued focus on serving our clients and patients with excellent care.”
“For 75 years, NMRMC has been dedicated to our mission of promoting, improving, and restoring health, and we are committed to preserving local access to care,” NMRMC CEO Wendy Brazil said.
“This is an opportunity to strengthen coordination between hospital and clinic providers, improve continuity of care, and enhance the overall patient experience for the communities we serve.”
The mental health center said that at this time:
• No immediate changes are being made to services.
• Patients should continue to access care as they normally would
• Details regarding any potential transitions are still under evaluation.
Behavioral health services provided by SEKMHC will continue without interruption and will remain central to the organization’s mission.